BES Parent Update
Week of February 23rd
Attendance Update
A few weeks ago I optimistically shared that we were coming out of illness season — and while we’ve certainly seen some healthier stretches, sickness has continued to move through both our building and community. Even so, I’m proud of how our families have worked to prioritize attendance when students are well.
Here’s where we currently stand:
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94% overall school attendance rate
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93% attendance rate over the last 30 days
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11.9% chronic absenteeism rate
Those numbers reflect steady effort during a tough winter stretch. Even more encouraging:
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17 students have been removed from our attendance watch list
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16 celebration letters were sent home recognizing improved attendance
That progress matters. Every day in school strengthens learning routines, relationships, and academic momentum — and small improvements add up quickly.
Thank you for partnering with us. If your family needs support with attendance, please reach out. We’re here to help and committed to finishing the year strong together.
Guess the Mystery Staff Member
Clue #1: The mystery staff member has lived in 2 Burlingtons. Burlington Colorado and Burlington Vermont.
Clue #2: The mystery staff member worked at a Ben and Jerry's Scoop Shop in Burlington, Vermont!
Clue #3: The mystery staff member's favorite Ben and Jerry's ice cream is Coffee, Coffee, Buzz, Buzz, Buzz!
Hey Did You Know...
🦴 Volunteers Needed for 4th Grade Science – Fossil Mini-Museum!
We’re excited to share that our 4th graders will be participating in a hands-on science experience next month! Mr. Fitchen will be transforming our cafeteria into a fossil mini-museum on:
March 9, 10, and 11
2:45–3:45 PM each day
To make this experience even more meaningful, we’re looking for adult volunteers to help guide students as they explore and think through questions about what they’re observing.
No background knowledge in fossils or geology is required — just a willingness to engage with students and help spark their curiosity!
Volunteers will:
Be matched with a simple task upon arrival at 2:45 PM
Support students as they rotate through exhibits
Wrap up by 3:45 PM
You are welcome to volunteer for one day, two days, or all three days — whatever works best for your schedule. If you are interested, please contact Val Webber in the Elementary School Office at 719-346-8166 so we can plan accordingly. We appreciate your partnership in making learning come alive for our students!
Good Things at BES
BES started the jump rope challenges this week and next as students wrap up their jump rope unit in P.E. The first challenge is the “Jump Rope Ninjas” board, which you can see in the hallway as you walk by the gym. This challenge tests how many consecutive jumps students can complete before missing. There has already been a huge buy-in from students! Those who earn Black Belt status receive a Jump Rope Ninjas certificate recognizing their achievement.
In addition, students can participate in a second challenge based on endurance—how long they can continuously jump rope. This challenge includes Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. Students who reach these levels can earn coupons to Ziggi’s, The Cougar Den, or Arby’s.
Lunch
Monday - Chicken drumstick, mashed potatoes, gravy, peaches, garlic knots
Tuesday - Teriyaki Chicken, egg roll, rice, broccoli, mandarin oranges
Wednesday - Chicken Pozole, tortilla chips, churro, pineapple
Thursday - Pigs in a blanket, baked beans, fruit cocktail, pudding
Calendar
March
8 - Daylight Saving Time Spring Forward
16 - 19 - Spring Break
25 - BES Group Pictures
26 - BES Group Pictures
26 - Dr. Seuss Night
April
12-15 - CMAS Testing for 3rd/4th graders
7 - Spring Music Concert in HS Auditorium